Cool Off This Summer | 6 Secret Swim Spots In The Riverina

When the mercury is officially doing its thing and the summer heat properly kicks in, ditch the pavement, forget the aircon, and track down your nearest, secret waterfront escape.

Forget the crowded public pools and basic backyard sprinklers. Whether you’re cutting out of work early for an afternoon dip, setting up a proper riverside session with your mates, wrangling the family for a genuinely low-key day trip, or rolling back into civilization after a dusty outback escape, the Riverina is secretly stacked with the best waterfront hideouts.

Think sandy river beaches that feel like the coast, therapeutic mineral pools that will fix your life, sparkling lakes and lagoons, and even some cheeky family-friendly water parks. We've tracked down the six must-know, low-key swim spots that will keep you genuinely cool all summer long. Stop scrolling, start splashing. You're welcome.

Lake TALBOT Water Park

This is Narrandera’s ultimate summer solution. We're talking about that rare gem kids actually beg to visit and parents are more than happy to oblige (because, frankly, it’s a vibe).

Lake Talbot Water Park isn't just a pool—it’s a whole setup. You get three massive, refreshing pools (and yes, they’re accessible), plus a full-throttle splash park and multiple slides for maximum air time. Whether you're hanging in the shallow end, tracking the kids as they barrel down the slides, or just nailing the perfect picnic BBQ setup on the huge, shaded lawn, this place is the perfect way to genuinely beat the heat and maximize those long summer days. Get wet, stay cool.

Open Monday to Friday: 6.30am to 8am, 10am to 7pm
Open Saturday & Sunday: 10am to 7pm

Sandy Point Reserve

Forget the coastal road trip, Hay has the goods right here. Sandy Point Beach is the local secret for switching off, cooling down, and hitting peak riverside bliss. Some locals even call it the best waterhole in the outback, and honestly, we might just agree.

Far from your average riverbank; we're talking soft, genuine sandy edges, plus plenty of shady River Red Gums where you can actually stretch out and relax. It’s a total hit with everyone: families, campers, watersports addicts, and anyone who just needs a decent escape.

The setup is flawless: Kids can happily splash in the shallows, while the adults can cast a line from some of the best fishing spots on the 'Bidgee (that’s the Murrumbidgee River, FYI). Better yet, the campground is free (for 2-3 nights) and it’s complete with a boat ramp, showers, and BBQ access. Long summer afternoons are basically begging you to stay. Fire up the grill and grab dinner as the sun does its epic Hay-thing over the water. This is where you want to be.

Lake Centenary

Just a few minutes north of Temora, Lake Centenary is a true all-rounder for locals and visitors who love genuinely live for getting out on the water.

This massive, man-made spot is your official license to thrill. We're talking zero limits: power-boating, water-skiing, sailing, canoeing, fishing, and, of course, swimming. Everything has its lane here, with ample room to enjoy both on and off the water.

Access is easy thanks to a well-maintained boat ramp, and the expansive grassy banks are prime real estate for setting up a picnic or grabbing a front-row seat to the chaos. Need to stretch your legs? Hit the new Lake Loop walking path or let the kids burn off energy at the playground. Pro-tip: the high-octane V8 Jetspring boat racing course is literally right next door. This is your summer action HQ.

Getting there: 420 Goldfields Way, Temora

Middle Beach

Need to seriously unplug? Middle Beach is your quiet luxury. This is a peaceful, sandy stretch along the Murrumbidgee River, built for spending a few slow, quality hours—or becoming your unofficial base camp if you’re staying at a nearby bush site.

Surrounded by towering River Red Gums, this spot serves up that classic, unbeatable Riverina blend of shade, stillness, and wide-open country sky.

It’s the easiest place to launch your kayak or canoe and explore the winding curves of the 'Bidgee. Or, better yet, just sprawl out on the sand with a book and punctuate those chapters with a seriously refreshing swim. Keep the binoculars handy if you’re into birdwatching—we're talking everything from olive-backed orioles to corellas flitting through the canopy.

Anglers, listen up: Middle Beach is a total favourite. You might pull in a trout or yellowbelly, but if you happen to land an iconic Murray Cod, remember the drill: release it. And for the explorers, a rugged forest trail follows the river downstream, leading you straight to those quiet pockets and secluded fishing holes perfect for off-grid camping. If you need a proper boat launch, the ramp is just upstream at Euroley Bridge.

Barmedman Mineral Pool

Known for its naturally therapeutic waters, Barmedman Mineral Pool, is a favourite summer stop for travellers seeking a restorative break to ditch the stiffness and highway fatigue.

An essential, restorative summer stop, located halfway between West Wyalong and Temora, these famous pools are fed by an underground stream, meaning the water is naturally rich with health-boosting minerals. Which is why travellers swear by it: it's a genuine, unique setting perfect for easing tired muscles, deeply unwinding after a long haul, or simply enjoying a therapeutic dip that makes you feel instantly alice. It’s basically Mother Nature’s antidote to a spa-like experience on the road.

Originally formed when an underground stream flooded the old goldmines, it now sits within a peaceful, four-hectare reserve for you to enjoy, October through May. There’s a Summer kiosk and BBQs to make use and for a small $10 donation, scenic reserve camping available close by.

Trust us, your body will thank you for this one.

Rocky Waterholes

Forget the main road, this is the real local secret. Tucked deep at the far end of Lake Talbot, Rocky Waterholes is the peaceful Riverina escape you need to know about.

Grab your picnic gear and set up camp right on the riverbank where the Bundidgerry Creek links up with the lake. The vibe is pure tranquillity, and if you keep your eyes peeled, this is prime territory for spotting koalas and local wildlife chilling out in the gums.

This hidden retreat is perfect for a relaxed day with friend, cute date spot, or maybe an easy spot of fishing. Best part? It comes equipped with all the essentials: covered seating, BBQ facilities, and a boat ramp, all super easy to access just off Old Wagga Road. Plus, it's the gateway to the connecting Flora and Fauna Reserve and the Bundidgerry Walking Track.

This is your low-key Summer escape, sorted.